Antigen tests play an important role in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infections. They allow the detection of pathogen-specific proteins present in the material collected from the patient. Compared to molecular methods (RT-PCR), the antigen test determines obtaining the result in a much shorter time interval. At the same time, maintaining high diagnostic specificity. The test performed in our laboratory is of a qualitative nature and is characterized by: 96.52% sensitivity and 99.68% diagnostic specificity. In relation with
and obtaining a positive test result most likely indicates an active course of the infection and the risk of spreading the pathogen in the event of failure to observe the appropriate procedures.
The starting material for the examination is a nasopharyngeal swab. Taken from people who meet clinical and / or epidemiological criteria. Qualified personnel is responsible for its implementation.
The sensitivity of the antigen test
The sensitivity of the antigen test is the highest in the period of intensive multiplication of the virus in the nasopharynx, i.e. 1-3 days before the onset of disease symptoms and during symptoms up to 5-7 days after their appearance. However, the limited sensitivity of the test means that a negative result does not exclude with 100% certainty an active disease.
